Denied permission to land chopper, Pradhan cancels visit to Gangabada

Gajapati: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan cancelled his scheduled visit to the Cyclone Titli-affected Gangabada panchayat under Rayagad block in the district today after being denied permission to land the helicopter in the panchayat, informed BJP general secretary Bhrugu Baxipatra and district president G. Venkatrabana.

However, he paid a visit to Manikapatna and Khambagaon villages and held discussions with the people affected by the cyclone and the subsequent floods. Besides, Pradhan would visit Laxmipur and Kainpur panchayats in the district, Baxipatra added.

Later in the day, the Union Minister will visit Aska in Ganjam district and take stock of the situation there, sources said.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik yesterday had paid a visit to the Gangabada panchayat and announced Rs 10 lakh assistance each to the next kin of those killed in the Titli-related incidents.

Besides, the affected residents were promised pucca houses in plain areas, under Biju Pucca Ghar Yojana and land rights. Drinking water and electricity would also be provided to them, the CM had stated.